From Blocks to Code - An Introduction to Programming CPD Session (On Behalf of Computing At School)

These resources are from my CPD session entitled 'From Blocks to Code - An Introduction to Programming'

Overview

This practical hands-on session focused on understanding, developing and delivering the programming strand of the new Computing curriculum. The session aimed to demonstrate how to turn simple algorithms into code and explored different strategies and tools for introducing programming from KS2 to KS4.

PROGRAMME During the session, delegates explored ways to introduce algorithms using a variety of activities from flow charts to card tricks. Delegates were also given hands-on experience of a variety of programming tools from BYOB (Build Your Own Blocks) programming languages, such as Scratch, Blockly and Daisy the Dinosaur to higher level languages, such as Python and TouchDevelop. The session also explored alternative ways to introduce programming using tools such as Sonic Pi and Minecraft Pi.

Curriculum Mapping:

KS2:

Design, write and debug programs that accomplish specific goals; solve problems by breaking them into smaller parts. Select, use and combine a variety of software on a range of digital devices to design and create a range of programs.

Use sequence, selection and repetition in programs; work with variables and various forms of input and output

Use logical reasoning to explain how some simple algorithms work; detect and correct errors in algorithms and programs

KS3/KS4:

Use two or more programming languages, at least one of which is textual, to solve a variety of computational problems.

Hereare a set of Flowchart tasks for simple activities (making tea, coffee, pizza, lasagna etc.) courtesy of David Barnard (via CAS). Includes a differentiated version of the making tea exercise. (Requires you to login to the CAS community - FREE)

Alternative activities

Jam Sandwich RobotIn this exercise, pupils are asked to create an algorithm from set commands to program their teacher (sandwich bot) to make a jam sandwich. Pupils must write a set of working instructions, using commands such as Pick Up and Put Down, which their teacher has to follow precisely in order to make a jam sandwich. Tip: If you're not a big fan of mess, I suggest replacing the jam with something less messy such as cheese or ham however, it’s nowhere near as much fun! To find out more, check out this lesson plan, courtesy of Phil Bagge, CAS Primary Master Teacher (@baggiepr): Jam Sandwich Algorithm (programming teacher bot) Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leBEFaVHllE

The robot gameAsk for volunteer (Inform them that they will be blindfolded!) Tell the volunteer that they are going to act as the “the robot”. Next, ask someone to secretly position an object (e.g. pen or sweet etc.) somewhere around the room. Tip: Don’t make it too difficult or dangerous! Once the object has been placed, ask for another volunteer. Inform the second volunteer that they are going to program the robot, using only the given commands to guide the robot to the object, as efficiently as possible! Commands: Forward x spaces, back x spaces, left turn, right turn.

Introduction to Programming - BYOB (Build Your Own Blocks)

Tutorials

Kodu

Kodu Classroom Kit - The Kodu classroom kit is a set of lesson plans and activities for educators. The entire kit is available as a single download (.zip file) or as single lesson plans.

Tutorials form CPD session:

Blockly games - Blockly Games is a series of educational games that teach programming. It is designed for children who have not had prior experience with computer programming. By the end of these games, players are ready to use conventional text-based languages.